Top Shizuoka Cultural Tours

Enjoy a private, full-day walking tour of Shizuoka/Shimizu with a government-licensed and multilingual guide. From the striking views of Mt. Fuji, to the history of the Old Tokaido Road, Shizuoka offers abundant nature and unique cultural experiences. Visit the castle of Japan's most famous shogun, take a ride on a steam locomotive, and/or enjoy the views of Mt. Fuji. Share your interests and your guide will customize a tour specifically for you.

Mt. Fuji Highlight Tour Make the most of your limited port time on this small-group tour, efficiently visiting the most iconic and beautiful spots around Mt. Fuji. Travel comfortably in a private vehicle accompanied by a knowledgeable local guide, giving you smooth access to places that are difficult to reach by public transport. Enjoy a relaxed, semi-private atmosphere unique to small-group tours while discovering the region’s culture, nature, and history. Depending on weather, traffic, or tour progress, the itinerary may be adjusted or some stops omitted to make the best use of your time. Even with a short stay, this well-balanced tour provides a fulfilling way to experience Japan’s iconic Mt. Fuji and its surrounding beauty. This tour is exclusively for cruise passengers arriving at Shimizu Port. Departure time cannot be chosen. The tour departs once participants have gathered, with the final departure set for one hour after the scheduled docking time.

This private tour is designed for cruise ship guests who want to experience the cultural heart of Mt. Fuji and Japan. For more than 1,300 years, Japanese life and faith have looked to one sacred peak—Mt. Fuji. On this journey, you’ll discover its significance through visits to historic shrines, a beloved local eatery, a sake brewery, and breathtaking viewpoints. Led by a bilingual local guide, the tour focuses on ”experiences": savor local dishes and drinks, learn basics of matcha, and join shrine purification rituals. Choose destinations that best fit your interests & schedule. “What if Mt. Fuji is hidden by clouds?” ✅ Even unseen, you’ll feel its presence and learn about Japan through shrines, a sake brewery, and cultural encounters. “We’re 5 people.” ✅ Perfect! The tour is ideal for 1–5 guests. For groups over 5, you may be able to join by making multiple bookings (max 5 per booking). Please contact us for confirmation.

If you’re arriving at Shimizu Port and you only have limited time to explore Shizuoka, then this private tour is a perfect choice. Save hours of research time and benefit from being able to choose 3–4 landmarks from a provided list. Then, head off on a customized tour with a chance to access views of Mt. Fuji, as well as a mix of shrines, museums, and natural wonders.

■Discover the best of Shimizu on a guided 4-hour culture & waterfront tour. ・Perfect for cruise passengers with limited time in port. ・Visit the UNESCO-listed Miho no Matsubara pine grove. ・Enjoy possible Mt Fuji views over Suruga Bay. ・Explore S-Pulse Dream Plaza for shopping and local culture. ・Try Shimizu's famous tuna bowl and local sake flight (optional). ・Browse Japanese brands including UNIQLO and GU. ・Take in harbor views during a relaxing walk at Shimizu Marine Park. ・Travel like a local using public transportation with guide support included. ・Well-paced itinerary combining nature, local flavor, shopping, and iconic scenery.

This tour is created for just one or two guests. We specialize in fully private tours limited to one group at a time Escape the crowds and discover the true spirit of Japan. Our countryside tour invites you into the warm home of a local tea farming family, where you can experience everyday rural life far from the usual tourist routes. Enjoy a peaceful day surrounded by tea fields, taste freshly brewed Japanese tea, try your hand at making soba noodles, and stroll through the scenic farm landscape. This is a rare chance to connect with local people, savor homemade flavors, and explore the slower, more authentic side of Japan.

Shimizu is one of the best port stops for viewing Mt. Fuji, especially on a clear day. Start your tour at the waterfront S-Pulse Dream Plaza, then head to Miho no Matsubara, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its pine-lined coastline and iconic views of Mt. Fuji. Visit Shimizu Fish Market “Kashi-no-Ichi,” where you can taste ultra-fresh seafood and interact with locals. Walk through the portside Hinode Shopping Street for souvenirs and a taste of local life. This tour is ideal for guests who want a scenic, food-focused, and culturally rich half-day experience right from the port.

Experience the ultimate private cultural immersion in Shizuoka. Designed exclusively for cruise travelers, this premium tour offers an intimate journey at a dynamic, efficient pace. **Highlights** - 100% Private: No waiting for groups. Enjoy a personalized pace. - Samurai Heritage: Explore Seiganyo-ji Temple, connected to Shogun Tokugawa Ieyasu. - Authentic Zen & Tea: Experience meditation (chairs available) and premium Matcha with sweets. - Premium Keepsake: Create your own calligraphy on a traditional scroll (Kakejiku). - Full Support: Your English-speaking private guide meets you at the pier and stays with you throughout the entire tour. **Time-Efficient Itinerary (2.5 - 3 Hours)** We maximize your limited shore time. By utilizing taxi transport and a focused 30-minute temple walk, we provide a rich experience without the wasted time of large bus tours. You’ll be back at the pier or local lunch spots with plenty of time to spare.

By participating this tour, you can visit 3 most popular spots around Shimizu. 1. Nihondaira Plateau (Green tea field and Mt.Fuji view at Nihondaira Ocha Kaikan, Nihondaira Yume Terrace Observatory, Spectacular view from Nihondaira ropeway) 2. Kunozan Toshogu Shrine a brilliant national treasure shrine. This beautiful shrine is for giving worship to Tokugawa Ieyasu, the first shogun of the Edo period. 3. Miho Beach (Miho Pine Tree Grove= a part of Mt.Fuji World Heritage, Miho no Matsugara Culture & Creativity Center) Our friendly English (or French) speaking guides who live in this area will guide you. They have a lot of knowledge about this area. We provide this tour by a comfortable jumbo taxis (van taxis). Regarding to the starting time, we recommend you to start earlier as possible to reduce the risk to line up for the ropeway. If you have wheelchairs or strollers, please let us know about the number and the size.

Mt. Fuji Highlight Tour — A Private and Fulfilling Experience This private tour is designed exclusively for guests arriving at Shimizu Port by cruise ship. Within your limited port time, you will efficiently visit Mt. Fuji’s most iconic and scenic spots, ensuring a memorable experience. Travel in comfort with your own private vehicle and a knowledgeable local guide, giving you flexible access to places that are difficult to reach by public transport. Throughout the tour, your guide will share insights into local culture, nature, and history, enriching every stop along the way. Please note that the itinerary may be adjusted or certain spots omitted depending on weather, traffic, or timing, to make the most of your visit. This well-balanced private tour offers a meaningful way to enjoy Japan’s iconic sights during your short stay at port.

This private and customizable driving tour will allow you to take in the beauty of Shirakawago with out the worry of catching trains or busses. This driving tour is perfect for independent travelers that would like to take in the sites on their own. Allow your private chauffer to take you around in comfort and style. Once your tour is done, your chauffer will take you to traditional city of Takayama so that you can continue your travels across Japan. We hope to send you to gorgeous Shirakawago soon!

■Discover the spiritual heart of Shimizu on a Zen & culture experience. ・Perfect for cruise passengers with limited time in port ・Enjoy a relaxed guided tour with a local expert ・Step into the historic Tesshu-ji Temple, home to the Tokugawa family legacy ・Experience Zazen meditation and short sutra chanting before a 1,000-year-old Bodhisattva ・Savor matcha and traditional wagashi in a serene temple setting ・Ring a historic temple bell — a rare WWII survivor protected by Tokugawa heritage ・Receive a personalized hand-written Goshuin with your name written in original Japanese kanji ・Capture breathtaking views of Mount Fuji from Shimizu Marine Park ・Hassle-free experience with full guidance, cultural insights, and curated photo moments included ・Well-paced 2-hour itinerary blending spirituality, history, and iconic scenery

This private driving tour will allow you to take in the beauty of Shirakawago with out the worry of catching trains or busses. This driving tour is perfect for independent travelers that would like to take in the sites on their own. Allow your private chauffer to take you around in comfort and style. Once you have explored the area done, your chauffer will take you to beautiful Kanazawa so that you can continue your travels across Japan. We hope to send you to gorgeous Shirakawago soon!

Arriving by cruise at Shimizu Port, or visiting central Japan, and want to discover Shizuoka in comfort? This tour is perfect for you! With a government-licensed guide and a private vehicle, exploring the home of Mt. Fuji and Japan's finest green tea has never been easier. Discover the scenic Shizuoka and Shimizu area with your experienced, English-speaking licensed guides! From the pine-fringed shore of Miho no Matsubara with its iconic view of Mt. Fuji, to Kunozan Toshogu Shrine, the Nihondaira plateau and the lively Shimizu fish market, this region blends natural beauty, samurai history and rich food culture. Hungry after exploring? Sample local favorites like fresh sakura shrimp and world-famous Shizuoka green tea. We welcome you to come and experience the unique charm of Shizuoka with us! Note*1: The National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter certification is issued by the Japanese government and requires a good knowledge and understanding of Japanese culture and history.

Visit Shirakawago in the Japanese Alps to see the historical and beautiful old thatched houses of Japan stand strong. These houses are over 150 years old and still are lived in today. After seeing the natural beauty of Shirakawago, head to Takayama to see the various traditional crafts the area keeps alive. Join one of our tour guides and learn about history and culture in a way that you would have never been able to on your own! This private and customizable tour will take you to Shirakawago and Takayama at your own pace. Once you place your reservation, a guide will be in touch with you to plan out the details of your tour. Be sure to let your guide know where you would like to visit and your interests so they can plan out an itinerary for you! If you will not have time to visit all the sights on your must-see list, contact us directly regarding extension fees. Learn about this world heritage site with us! We hope to guide you soon!

• This is a private tour, exclusively for your group (only your group will participate). • Cruise ship guests are welcome & timely return to the port is guaranteed. • Perfect for one-day visitors with limited time. • Ideal for first-time visitors looking to make the most of their time while experiencing local attractions & culture. • Explore Hakone’s top highlights efficiently with a knowledgeable & friendly local guide. • The itinerary is flexible & can be fully customized to suit your interests. • Admission tickets & private transport costs are included for a seamless experience. Discover the beauty of Mount Fuji & Hakone, ideal for nature enthusiasts & photographers. Visit the iconic 5th Station of Mount Fuji, cruise the serene waters of Lake Ashinoko, & ride the Hakone Ropeway over the volcanic landscapes. Please note: In the event of poor weather at Mount Fuji, the visit to the 5th Station will be replaced with a trip to the picturesque Oshino Hakkai springs.

Explore the both modern and traditional sides of Kobe with your English-speaking chauffeur on this full-day driving tour. Enjoy the ease of travelling in a private vehicle and the independence of exploring the sights on your own. Come and discover the beautiful and architecturally stunning city of Kobe with us! Perched on a hillside sloping down to the sea, Kobe is one of Japan's most attractive and cosmopolitan cities. Immerse yourself in the city's distinct atmosphere and dining options! From seafood to sake to sweets, Kobe has it all! We hope to see you in Kobe soon!

This tour is packed with historical, cultural, and natural attractions. Each has its own unique charm, and the entire tour is structured to allow you to enjoy various aspects of Shizuoka. 1. Ryuge-ji Temple has nice garden and historic hall attract visitors. The tranquil atmosphere will provide you with a moment of healing. 2. tea hause Mt.Fuji can be seen beyond the tea fields on a fine day, and visitors can taste matcha. Tea-related goods are also available for purchase, making it a great place to look for souvenirs. 3. Nihondaira Yume Terrace is a spectacular spot with a panoramic view of Mount Fuji and Suruga Bay. Visitors can enjoy the modern architecture and scenery. There are also exhibits on the history and culture of Shizuoka. 4. Minowa Inari is a historic shrine. It is believed to bring prosperity to business and happiness to families, and attracts many worshippers. The approach lined with torii gates is photogenic.

Perfect for cruise guests seeking a Shizuoka shore excursion, this 2-hour private tour from Shimizu Port blends history, culture, and hands-on experience — all guided in English. - Guided visit to the Sushi Museum, with exhibits recreating Shimizu 100 years ago — perfect for photogenic shots - Hands-on sushi-making class with a professional sushi chef - Use locally caught fish from Shizuoka to prepare your own nigiri - Taste your handmade sushi plus additional pieces prepared by the chef - Optional local sake tasting — sample Shizuoka sake to pair with sushi (for adults 20+) - Duration: approx. 2 hours - Meeting point: Shimizu Port Your English-speaking guide will meet you directly at the port (details provided after booking). - All ingredients and tools provided; no experience required - This is a private tour — no other groups will join

This is more than just a tour where you drink tea and go shopping. In Japan, there are passionate artisans dedicated to cultivating the finest leaves. This tour connects you directly with these very artisans. In Shizuoka’s Makinohara Plateau, witness the "Tea Horizon" (Cha-hei-sen), an endless expanse of tea fields unique to this premier region. We will visit an artisan who maximizes nature's power to craft their tea. They will personally guide you through their diverse fields, explaining how natural farming creates unique flavors in each plot. After your stroll, the artisan will brew their naturally grown tea for you. Learn the true value of tea from this dedicated artisan, and enjoy connecting with them to the fullest!

We don't just take you to buy Japanese sake. We take you to understand it, meet the artisans who make it, and build your own connection with Japanese sake in this region. First, starting with its history, Satta Pass is a viewpoint for Mt. Fuji on a rugged trail built 400 years ago. Here, ancient travelers used to stop to relax for a moment. Next, exploring the background, Seikenji Temple served as a resting place for these travelers on their way to Satta Pass. Here, you will discover the connection between Japanese sake and these people. Finally, experience this story firsthand by visiting the 300-year-old Sanwa Brewery. Local artisans developed their skills to craft "Garyubai" sake to provide comfort to such people. Tasting various types of this sake lets you savor the profound connection of this region.

This full-day tour takes you on a relaxing and immersive journey through two of Shizuoka's most beloved attractions. Start your day at Kakegawa Kachōen, an all-weather flower and bird park where you can walk among vibrant flowers and interact with a wide variety of free-flying birds in spacious greenhouses. Enjoy bird shows, hand-feeding experiences, and beautiful seasonal blooms in a comfortable indoor setting. In the afternoon, continue to the Tea Museum, Shizuoka, located in the heart of one of Japan's largest tea-producing regions. Dive into the world of tea with hands-on experiences like matcha grinding, tea brewing, and tastings. Explore cultural exhibits, participate in a traditional tea ceremony, and savor tea-infused dishes at the museum café—all while taking in scenic views of tea fields and Mt. Fuji. This tour offers a unique combination of nature, culture, and culinary delight—perfect for those seeking a deeper appreciation of Japanese tradition and natural beauty.

This tour highlights the coastal charm of the Shimizu and Numazu areas, combining waterfront views, a lively fishing port, historic architecture, and serene seaside landscapes. Each stop offers a different perspective on local culture, from everyday harbor life to traditional design and wide-open coastal scenery. The itinerary is designed with flexibility in mind, allowing certain visits or short stops to be adjusted based on your interests. Whether you prefer more time by the ocean, a historic setting, or an additional attraction in the Numazu area, the route can be tailored to match your pace and preferences.

Spend a peaceful day in the heart of Japan’s tea country with this one-day tour from Shizuoka. Visit a family-run green tea plantation that has thrived for generations, sample fragrant teas freshly brewed on-site, and end your day with a breathtaking view of Mt. Fuji from a scenic terrace. Ideal for travelers seeking a serene escape or cruise passengers stopping at Shimizu Port. ・Tour a historic hillside tea farm in Shizuoka and enjoy a guided tasting of seasonal green tea varieties ・Savor a fresh seafood lunch near Japan’s top tuna port, with alternative options available ・Take in stunning panoramic views of Mt. Fuji from Nihondaira Yume Terrace and the elegant lounge of Nippondaira Hotel